Guatemala Visa Requirements
For 🇺🇸 United States passport holders
Great news! United States passport holders can enter Guatemala without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Visa-free. CA-4 region (90 days combined).
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid US Passport
Must be valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your planned departure date (varies by country)
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from the country, such as a return flight or onward travel booking
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or address where you will be staying
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Credit cards, bank statements, or cash to cover expenses during your stay
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended for all international travel covering medical emergencies
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and malaria prophylaxis for rural areas recommended.
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Exercise increased caution in Guatemala. Avoid displaying valuables, use authorized taxis or Uber, and don't walk alone at night in cities. Tourist areas like Antigua and Atitlán are generally safer. Avoid travel to certain border areas.
Money & Costs
Currency
Q Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $35 · Mid: $80 · Luxury: $200+
Tipping
Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants. Round up for taxis. Tip tour guides $5-10 per person per day.
Practical Info
Power
Type A, B, 120V
Driving
Right side
Emergency
110 (police), 122/123 (fire), 125 (Red Cross ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Guatemala City (GUA) · Flores (FRS)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
November to April is the dry season with pleasant temperatures and clear skies ideal for exploring Mayan ruins and hiking volcanoes. May to October is rainy but brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists. The highlands stay cooler year-round.
Cultural Notes
Guatemala has the largest Maya population in Central America, with over 20 distinct Maya groups. Traditional dress is still worn daily in many communities. Ask permission before photographing people in traditional clothing. Respect sacred sites.
Insider Tips
Negotiate shuttle prices in advance - tourist shuttles are the safest transport option. Learn basic Spanish as English is limited. ATMs dispense both Quetzales and US dollars. Don't photograph people without permission, especially indigenous communities.